Temple's Hold Hinders Hospital's Efforts

The Mettapracharak Hospital states that it hasn’t received any donations or financial assistance from Wat Rai Khing for over three years, even though collection boxes at the temple continue to gather funds intended for the hospital.

During their examination of Wat Rai Khing’s financial records in the past few days, investigators discovered 53 bank accounts, among which were two registered under the Mettapracharak Foundation's name. These particular accounts were meant for raising funds to purchase medical supplies and aid the hospital operations.

Established in 1989 by Phra Ubali Kunoopamajarn, who served as the previous abbot of Wat Rai Khing until his passing, this hospital remains an essential health care facility for residents of Nakhon Pathom, according to information from law enforcement sources. Nonetheless, representatives at the hospital informed authorities that they stopped receiving monetary assistance from the temple since 2021. These statements arise amidst worries about donations placed into collection bins failing to reach their intended destination at the medical center.

The preliminary review indicated that the two main fund accounts hold slightly more than one million Thai Baht, which seems relatively small considering the number of visitors to the temple. Officials have asked for complete bank statements to examine whether these resources were utilized properly or potentially mishandled.

In the past, Mettapracharak Hospital frequently obtained funds through the foundation for purposes such as scholarships, medical education, and facilities. However, financial backing dropped dramatically in 2021 and ceased completely over the last three years.

As a result, the hospital established a fresh foundation along with a dedicated bank account to accept direct contributions from the general public. After obtaining consent from the temple committee, they also placed a brand-new donation box within the premises, which would be overseen exclusively by their employees. Nonetheless, according to an insider, those initial collection boxes connected to the previous fund and marked specifically for purchasing medical gear continue to stand where they were originally positioned.

Subsequent inquiries uncovered extra accounts linked to Phra Thamma Wachiranuwat, the ex-abbot currently referred to as Yaem Inkrungkao, who is detained. The probe also highlighted dubious financial activities involving over a million Thai baht. Law enforcement officials are presently questioning witnesses and individuals connected with these matters; however, they haven’t issued any arrest orders yet. Investigators pointed out that the temple’s finances were once clear-cut, until complications arose following Yaem becoming abbot back in 2008.

Additionally, unsubstantiated allegations suggest that the previous abbot obtained funds from fellow monks in return for promoting them, all while he held the position of Governor of Ecclesiastical Region 14. Further scrutiny might be warranted should concrete evidence come to light.

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